Ayr vs Stranraer preview - Moffat makes welcome return for Ayr

Posted Friday, March 07, 2014 by PA

Ayr will have leading goalscorer Michael Moffat leading their attack against Scottish League One play-off rivals Stranraer after he completed his four-match suspension imposed by the SFA for breaching betting rules.

The Honest Men also welcome back Kyle McAusland, who was banned for the 3-2 midweek defeat from Forfar, however Kevin Kyle and Scott McLaughlin drop out of things through suspension.

Player/manager Mark Roberts said: "We have missed Michael and are delighted to have him available again. It is not just his goals we miss but his ability to stretch teams due to his pace.

"We are low on confidence after a disappointing run, however one result can change that."

Stranraer will be without the suspended Stephen Bell as they look to record a third consecutive league win over Ayr this season.

Stephen Stirling is expected to shake off a groin problem to feature, however long-term absentees Chris Aitken (ankle) and Marc Corcoran (hip) remain out.

Manager Stephen Aitken said: "This is an important game as if we win it we put ourselves in a great position for the play-offs.

"Ayr also want to be in the play-offs but having lost in midweek and lost to us in the last two games, they have a few reasons for wanting to win this game."